Question

Which of the following lists the steps of the scientific method in order? a. observation-prediction-experimentation-hypothesis development b. hypothesis development-observation- experimentation-prediction c. prediction-hypothesis development- experimentation-observation d. observation-hypothesis development-prediction-experimentation

Short answer

d. observation-hypothesis development-prediction-experimentation

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic sequence followed by scientists to conduct research. The typical steps are observation, hypothesis development, prediction, and experimentation.

- Analyze the Options

Review the given options and compare them to the correct order of the scientific method. Identify the option that follows the sequence: observation, hypothesis development, prediction, and experimentation.

- Identify the Correct Option

From the given choices: a. observation-prediction-experimentation-hypothesis development b. hypothesis development-observation-experimentation-prediction c. prediction-hypothesis development-experimentation-observation d. observation-hypothesis development-prediction-experimentation Only option d correctly lists the steps of the scientific method in the correct order.

Key concepts

Observation

The first step in the scientific method is observation. Scientists begin their research by noticing and describing phenomena in the natural world. Observation involves using all senses to gather information.
For example:

• Seeing plants grow faster under certain conditions
• Noticing animals behaving differently in distinct environments
• Recording rainfall patterns over time
These observations help scientists identify patterns or anomalies that need further investigation. Always be curious and precise in this initial step.

Hypothesis Development

After making observations, the next step is to develop a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a tentative explanation for an observation or a scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation. It is essentially an educated guess based on the information available.

• It should be clear and specific
• It must be testable and falsifiable

For instance, if you observed that plants grow faster with more sunlight, your hypothesis might be, 'Plants exposed to more sunlight grow faster because they can perform more photosynthesis.' Crafting a good hypothesis lays the foundation for your subsequent research.

Prediction

Once a hypothesis is formed, the next step is to make a prediction. A prediction is a logical statement about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct. It often follows an 'if-then' structure.
For example:

• If plants are given more sunlight, then they will grow taller in a shorter period.
• If a diet high in sugar leads to weight gain, then animals on such a diet will weigh more than those who are not.

Makes predictions clear and precise. They provide a specific outcome to look for during experimentation, helping to verify or refute the hypothesis.

Experimentation

Experimentation is the step where scientists test their hypotheses and predictions. It involves designing and conducting experiments that provide empirical evidence.
To ensure valid results:

• Control variables to keep all conditions consistent except the one you're testing
• Collect data meticulously
• Repeat experiments to verify results

For example, to test if sunlight affects plant growth, you could grow two sets of plants: one with ample sunlight and one with limited sunlight, while keeping other factors like water and soil constant. Analyze the data to see if it supports or refutes your hypothesis.
This systematic approach helps ensure that findings are reliable and relevant.